Definition

Noun: A baby who is born weighing less than 5.5 pounds (approximately 2500 grams). This classification is based solely on birth weight and applies regardless of how long the baby was in the womb (gestational age). These infants face an increased risk of health complications.

Usage

The term is used in medical and public health contexts to categorize newborns and assess potential health risks. - The neonatal unit specializes in the care of low-birth-weight babies. - Smoking during pregnancy is a major risk factor for having a low-birth-weight baby.

Advanced Usage

• Medical Classification: Often abbreviated as LBW baby. It is a specific clinical category distinct from "preterm baby" (born too early), though many low-birth-weight babies are also preterm.
  • The study compared developmental outcomes for LBW babies and full-term infants.

Variants and Related Words

• Low birth weight (LBW) (noun phrase): The condition itself.
  • The hospital's new program aims to reduce the incidence of low birth weight.
• Very low birth weight (VLBW) (noun phrase): A sub-category for infants weighing less than 3.3 pounds (1500 grams).
• Extremely low birth weight (ELBW) (noun phrase): A sub-category for infants weighing less than 2.2 pounds (1000 grams).

Synonyms

• LBW infant (noun): A direct synonym with identical meaning.
  • The protocol is designed for LBW infants.

Noun

1. an infant born weighing less than 5.5 pounds (2500 grams) regardless of gestational age
   • a low-birth-weight infant is at risk for developing lack of oxygen during labor